After a lengthy debate, with Democrats and Republicans disagreeing on the intent of a Senate bill to prohibit state courts from applying foreign law, the legislation advanced in the House largely along party lines with a 56-44 vote.

Senate Bill 97, carried by Keith Regier, R-Kalispell, doesn’t specifically mention Sharia law, but it was the only kind of foreign law mentioned during testimony in both the Senate and House judiciary committees.

Sharia law is the religious governance followed by people practicing Islam. Sharia utilizes religious texts to determine divine will. Its implementation varies across the world, with Saudi Arabia adhering to strict punishments like stoning, while in other countries it is most regularly used in personal law such as marriage and divorce.

Democrats said the bill targets Muslims, while Republicans said it simply reinforces the Montana and U.S. constitutions.

By the nature of the opposing laws and philosophies, it is understandable that a bill upholding the Constitution would seem to target radical, Sharia-abiding Islamists. But it says more about which political group is supporting which side. Republicans fight for the Constitution, while Democrats fight to erode it.

Still, upholding Constitutional law does not result in discrimination of other religions. The laws in this country are clear, and Sharia law has no standing in any manner. It seems reasonable to codify such a concept.

Conservatives across the nation have sent a powerful message against Sharia Law. A petition on Stand United has been created, demanding Congress take action against the oppressive legal system. READ MORE